A Classic Broadway Musical comes to Vancouver.
It has been some while since I’ve been to an actual Broadway show, so watching this last night was almost like being back in New York. Meaning it was that good.
Take a leap back in time to 194o’s New York City where gambling was rampant, night club performers were raunchy and attractive but empty-headed women were referred to as “Dolls” in the hit Broadway musical “Guys and Dolls” – now playing until June 30th at the Arts Club Stanley Alliance Stage in Vancouver. Now celebrating their diamond anniversary – shining bright for 60 years.
The last musical I saw on this stage was “Beautiful” – the Carole King Story and it was excellent. Of course I knew all the songs from having listened to “Tapestry” over and over again back in the day.
I must admit that I really enjoy a good musical with talented singers/dancers/actors, so this performance of “Guys and Dolls” hit all the right notes. I thoroughly enjoyed it and the familiarity of songs I’ve heard in the past such as “Sue Me” and “If I were a Bell.”
Based on a story and characters of Damon Runyon, “Guys and Dolls” first premiered in 1950 with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser and a book by Jo Swerling & Abe Burrows. Set in the bustling streets of New York City, the show follows the intertwining stories of gamblers, nightclub performers, and missionaries.
At its heart, “Guys and Dolls” is a romantic comedy, featuring colorful characters such as Nathan Detroit, a lovable but perpetually broke gambler; Miss Adelaide, his long-suffering fiancée of 14 years who is desperate to get him to the altar; Sky Masterson, a suave and high-rolling gambler; and Sarah Brown, a devout missionary trying to save souls in the midst of the city’s chaos.
The plot revolves around Nathan’s attempts to find a venue for his infamous floating craps game while simultaneously trying to avoid commitment to Adelaide. Meanwhile, Sky makes a bet that he can take Sarah on a date to Havana, Cuba, leading to unexpected romantic entanglements.
Filled with catchy tunes like “Luck Be a Lady” and “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat,” “Guys and Dolls” is known for its vibrant characters, witty dialogue, and toe-tapping music. It’s a delightful blend of humor, romance, and old-school charm that continues to captivate audiences with its timeless appeal.
For Tickets and information on Cast please visit: https://artsclub.com/shows/2023-2024/guys-and-dolls
Header image: Cast of Guys & Dolls, 2024; set design by Scott Penner; costume design by Christine Reimer; lighting design by Gerald King; photo by Moonrider Productions for the Arts Club Theatre Company
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